Worker seriously injured in forklift accident

On behalf of Dennis Kenny Law on Thursday, October 4, 2018.

Operating heavy machinery comes with serious responsibilities. Improper instructions or lack of training could potentially lead to a dangerous situation. An independent contractor for Sears experienced this firsthand when he was struck from behind by a forklift. The machine landed on his ankle, resulting in permanent injury.

Safely operating heavy machinery

A Connecticut jury recently awarded the contractor $1.6 million. Back in May 2014, a Sears operation manager said another worker was using the forklift improperly, leading to an ankle-crushing injury.

Construction sites, factories and warehouses are some of the most dangerous places to work. Skillfully operating machines is one of the most important factors in creating a safe work environment. While some accidents are outside of anyone’s control, workers can conduct themselves in a way that lowers the chance of an incident. Tips for encouraging workplace safety includes:

Training: Machines are highly technical. One wrong move could result in injury or fatality. Before you use any type of heavy equipment, make sure you are confident in your abilities. Do you know the quirks of the machine? Do you know what every lever and button does? Let a manager or supervisor know if you are unsure.

Inspection: Perhaps you have operated heavy equipment many times. Safety measures don’t end there. Properly inspect machines to make sure they are in peak condition. Regular inspections are a safe habit to start.

Paying attention: Rushing is one of the leading causes of construction and warehouse accidents. While it’s tempting to hit all the deadlines, remember to slow down and pay attention to your surroundings.

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